“What keeps us from sharing the most valuable piece of information we have?”
On Saturday, Jan. 31, this question was addressed during a workshop on Spiritual Conversations at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Salem, Oregon. Members from eight local LCMS congregations gathered to hear Jennifer Prophete, Director of Lutheran Hour Ministries’ The Hopeful Neighborhood Project, present valuable insights and direction on how to go from “reluctant” to “confident” to “eager” for spiritual conversations.
The goal of the workshop was to learn practical tools for building trust so spiritual conversations could be approached wisely. Rather than worrying about saying “the right thing,” attendees learned how timing, posture, and especially listening actually matter more. Also, by noticing when spiritual openness happens, responses can be formed that are right for the moment without rushing, pushing, or, as many of us do, retreating into silence. The Spiritual Conversation Curve, a research-based tool that helps recognize when a conversation is welcome and when it is not, was also introduced. It provides a tangible guide so that responses can be thoughtfully considered to avoid pressure or forcing moments that aren’t ready.
To make this event happen (and with encouragement from LHM), Redeemer requested a speaker for this workshop, and it was granted. With little time to publicize, the event was listed on the NOW District website and personal email invitations were sent, while LHM provided online registration service and worked closely with Redeemer to design graphics. The response went far beyond expectations! Fifty-five registered, with 48 people attending. Half were from Redeemer and half from seven other congregations. This shows that the information was something people wanted to hear.
Research has indicated that the vast majority of people who stopped, or never started coming to church, credit their beginning to someone simply inviting them. However, they weren’t invited by strangers on a street corner; they were invited by friends, family, or sometimes just acquaintances. Talking to people, including the people you are closest to, about spiritual matters doesn’t have to be awkward or uncomfortable. However, it is important to first become equipped for “spiritual conversations.”
The demographic of Redeemer has changed over the years, from vibrant and thriving in the 1980s to almost entirely Boomers and elders today. The youth left several years ago, and this fall, children’s Sunday School did not open. This is true of too many other churches as well, and some have closed. Although memberships have transferred to other churches, this just reflects people moving geographically, not that more people are connecting with Jesus. A reason some LCMS churches might not be bringing in newer and younger members could be because they have stopped engaging in evangelism. The Great Commission is a universal calling, not just for those with extra letters after their name. It cannot be fulfilled by writing a check. And increasing the membership through birth rate is not outreach or evangelism.
For Redeemer, this was an important first step towards not just contacting but engaging with people living in the surrounding neighborhoods. Lutheran Hour Ministries was exceptionally supportive, providing coaching, a speaker at no charge, as well as discounted materials through their Ambassador program.
If you wish to learn or do more, please investigate the Spiritual Conversations Kit on LHM’s website. It contains the book, “The Reluctant Witness” by Don Everts (a good place to start!), a Barna Report called “Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age” (produced in partnership with LHM), copies of Spiritual Conversation Curve cards, several pamphlets, and a DVD containing workshops. Redeemer member Merryann Randall, who helped organize their event, welcomes other congregations to email her for more info about the experience. She would be happy to share. If you are interested in more information about the Hopeful Neighborhood Project or in hosting a workshop at your church, please contact Jennifer Prophete.
Redeemer plans to present the material again via DVD on Saturday, April 18, from 12:45-3:30 p.m. This event is especially for those who missed the first one or would like a “refresher” – but anyone who wishes to come is welcome, even if they didn’t attend the first. No cost. Please let the organizers know you are coming by texting 503-586-3405 or emailing Merryann Randall.